Apparatus, method, and system for analyzing samples using triboluminescent technology

ABSTRACT

An apparatus, method, and system are disclosed to analyze samples materials using triboluminescent technology. A mechanical activation knot is provided that comprises an optical window, a membrane, and a device that supplies a constant pressure of gas on the zone of activation. A sample is placed between the membrane and the optical window. The optical window is rotated along its z-axis. The friction between the sample and the optical window generates triboluminescence and associated optical emissions. Optical emissions may be distributed on the spectrum by a spectrograph, a monochromator, or a collection of filters, and then fixed by the charge coupled device, a photodiode, or a photomultiplier tube. Then, the results (data) are incorporated into different mathematical algorithms or programs with the help of computers or other computation technologies. The final results (the output) may be compared among themselves or with reference data stored in a computer&#39;s memory.

RELATED UNITED STATES APPLICATIONS/CLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0001] Not applicable.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to an apparatus, method, and systemfor analyzing and identifying samples using triboluminescent technology.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] People have long detected the emission of light and otherelectromagnetic emissions in the process of applying mechanicalstimulation, such as rubbing, deformation, scratching, striking, andfracture. This phenomenon is broadly known as mechanoemission and, inthe case of light, has been observed for centuries and has severalforms: triboluminescence (luminescence due to friction),mechanoluminescence (luminescence due to deformation of a material), andfractoluminescence (luminescence generated by fracturing a material).This mechanical stimulation may also generate electricity, also known astriboelectricity. The mechanoemission, in addition to an increase intemperature during the mechanical stimulation, emits optical and radiowave diapason of electromagnetic waves which conveys information aboutthe material under investigation and can be recorded for analysis.

[0004] Presently, scientists from many countries study the phenomenon oftriboluminescence, and research funds in the amount of billions ofdollars are allocated to that effort. Specifically in the United States,a lot of time and effort is dedicated to the study of triboluminescencein many universities across the country.

[0005] One of the most important challenges in this field of study forscientists around the world and in the United States is to find a methodof mechanical activation that would enable one to detect opticalemissions with such characteristics (intensity and duration) that wouldallow for practical applications of the method of triboluminescence.Currently, methods experimented within this field are only able todetect a signal with low intensity and insignificant duration in time(picoseconds or nanoseconds). Further, registration and recording ofthese low intensity, short duration signals requires very expensiveequipment.

[0006] One attempt is a triboluminometer that has been developed in theformer Soviet Union (the “Russian Triboluminometer”) at the KievResearch Institute of Oncology in Kiev, Ukraine. The RussianTriboluminometer consists of (i) a mechanical activation knot; (ii) anelectrode; (iii) a filter panel and associated mounting hardware; and(iv) a photomultiplier. The mechanical activation knot comprises anelectret probe in the shape of a cylinder. The electret probe iscomposed of polytetrafluoroethylene (i.e., Teflon). The electret proberotates around a shaft, which is connected to a motor. In the process ofthis rotation, the electret probe rubs against a sample, which createsan electric charge. The probe continues to rotate and comes in contactthe operating electrode, securely grounded. As a result of this contact,an optical beam is emitted. This optical beam is then detected by thephotomultiplier tube. The optical emissions are spectrally divided by afilter and registered by a photomultiplier. The usefulness of theRussian Triboluminometer, however, is limited because it generates arelatively weak signal of low intensity and short duration and does notadequately address the aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention overcomes the aforementioned problems ofthe prior art by providing a more efficient solution. The prior art doesnot provide the advantages and capabilities existing in the presentinvention. The present invention is an improvement upon the prior art inmany aspects, for example: (1) it allows one to adjust the speed ofrotation of an optical window while the device is in operation, and theforce with which a sample is pressed between the membrane and therotating window depending on the characteristics of any given sample;(2) it allows for a higher limit of adjustable speed; (3) its opticalwindow is more durable; (4) it is capable of detecting a signal ofoptical emissions at a much greater resolution for a longer duration;(5) it uses a membrane that provides an even distribution of force onall contact points of a sample; and (6) it ensures that the rotation andactivation takes place only after a sample is firmly and completelypressed against the optical window, whereas in the prior art, a sampleis being pressed to an electret probe as it is being rotated.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, anapparatus for analyzing samples using triboluminescent technology isprovided. The apparatus comprises a mechanical activation knot thatgenerates triboelectricity, wherein the mechanical activation knotcomprises an optical window, a membrane, and a device that supplies aconstant pressure of gas to a zone of activation. The apparatus furthercomprises a device for dividing the spectrum of optical emissions and adetector for registration of optical emissions. A detector controlleramplifies and digitizes signals received by the detector. Digitizedsignals are sent to a portable computer to be stored and analyzed.

[0009] In a second aspect of the present invention, a method foranalyzing samples using triboluminescent technology is provided. Themethod of the present invention comprises placing a sample between anoptical window and a membrane of a mechanical activation knot; supplyinga constant pressure of a gas on a zone located between the membrane andthe optical window; rotating the optical window to generatetriboluminescence, and resulting optical emissions, from the frictionbetween the sample and the optical window; directing optical emissionsthrough a device for dividing the spectrum of optical emissions;detecting the intensity of the optical emissions across the spectrum ofthe optical emissions; amplifying and digitizing the detected signals;and storing and analyzing the digitized signals.

[0010] In a third aspect of the present invention, a system foranalyzing samples using triboluminescent technology is provided. Thesystem comprising means for preparing a sample; means for creatingoptical emissions by generating friction between the sample and anoptical window; means for dividing the spectrums of optical emissions;means for detecting optical emissions; means for amplifying anddigitizing detected signals; and means for storing and analyzing thedigitized signals.

[0011] In contrast to the prior art, some technical characteristics(such as the intensity, resolution and duration of the signal) of thepresent invention show an improvement of up to one million times. Inaddition, this instrument is relatively inexpensive, thereby hasteningwidespread adoption and permitting others to conduct research. Thepresent invention may be used in any industry, science, medicine, spaceexploration, defense and military.

[0012] These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood with regard to the followingdescription, claims, and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Referring briefly to the drawings, embodiments of the presentinvention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawingsin which:

[0014]FIG. 1 depicts the hardware configuration of the presentinvention.

[0015]FIG. 2 depicts a flow chart that illustrates the steps related tothe method or process of one aspect of the present invention.

[0016]FIG. 3 depicts output of the present invention when inkjet paperis used as a sample material.

[0017]FIG. 4 depicts output of the present invention when 100 cottonfiber paper is used as a sample material.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Referring more specifically to the drawings, for illustrativepurposes the present invention is embodied in the system configuration,method of operation, and article of manufacture or product generallyshown in FIGS. 1-2. It will be appreciated that the system, method ofoperation, and article of manufacture may vary as to the details of itsconfiguration and operation without departing from the basic conceptsdisclosed herein. The following detailed description is, therefore, notto be taken in a limiting sense.

[0019] The present invention can use used to analyze a number ofmaterials and substances, including (i) liquids, such as water, alcohol,perfume, oil, petroleum and the like, in their pure form or with addedingredients, such as salt or sugar; (ii) condensed products of humanbreath; (iii) whole blood and its components (lymphocytes, lipoproteins,etc); (iv) tear, urine, saliva, sperm and their components in humans andanimals; and (v) DNA. Following is (i) a discussion of samplepreparation; (ii) a discussion of the instrument and its components; and(iii) a discussion of the operation of the instrument, including anexample.

[0020] I. Sample Preparation

[0021] A biological sample in its liquid form is placed on a substrate(made out of paper, fabric, leather, cellulose, etc) by a pipette. Then,it is dried in an incubator, where certain temperature and humiditylevels are set (typically, humidity levels are 40% to 45% and thetemperature is around 37° Celsius). The length of time a sample stays inthe incubator depends on the chemical composition of a sample and thegoal of the experiment. There are several advantages of this type ofsample preparation. First, it is relatively inexpensive because it doesnot require the use of pure chemical ingredients that are usually veryexpensive. Second, a sample is stored in a dried rather than liquidcondition. The fact that a sample is stored in liquid form significantlyprolongs storage time under reduced temperature conditions (a driedsample could be stored in a regular refrigerator for up to six monthwithout impairing its chemical composition, whereas a liquid samplewould oxidize under these storage conditions); and enables a convenient,easy, safe and inexpensive transportation of the sample without the needfor sophisticated equipment (a sample can be shipped via mail in aplastic bag).

[0022] II. The Instrument and its Components

[0023] Referring to FIG. 1, one embodiment of the present invention isshown. The present invention comprises: (i) a mechanical activation knot(10); (ii) a device for division of the spectrum of optical emissions(20); (iii) a detector for registration of optical emissions (30); (iv)a detector controller (40); and (v) a computer (50). Each of thesecomponents are described in detail below.

[0024] The mechanical activation knot (10), comprises: (i) an opticalwindow (11); (ii) a membrane (12); and (iii) a device that supplies tothe zone of activation a constant pressure of a gas, such as oxygen ornitrogen. An optical window made of sapphire is connected to a device,via a shaft, that is capable of rotating the window, such as an electricmotor (the shaft and electric motor are not illustrated in FIG. 1).After a sample (13) is placed against the optical window, the electricmotor rotates the optical window to create mechanoemission. Themechanical activation knot (10) of the present invention is animprovement over the prior art because it has a higher limit ofadjustable speed of activation, which allows for greater intensity ofthe optical emission.

[0025] In one embodiment of the present invention, single crystalsapphire is used as the material for the optical window (11). Sapphirewindows are ideal for demanding applications, such as laser system,because of extreme hardness (second only to diamonds among crystals),high thermal conductivity, high dialectic constant and resistance tocommon chemical acids and alkalis. Because of the structural strength ofsapphires, sapphire windows can be made much thinner than other commondialectic windows with improved transmittance, with transmissionsranging from 0.15-5.5 microns. Although other materials with goodmechanical properties and transmission ranging from 180 to 1100nanometers (nm) may be substituted for an optical window (11), such asfused silica, optical sapphire still has superior quality andcharacteristics for the purposes of the optical window (11). The use ofsapphire glass for the optical window (11) is an improvement over theprior art's use of an electret probe. The significance of using sapphirematerial lies in its extreme hardness (second only to diamonds amongcrystals) and durability compared to a relatively soft material likeTeflon. Using sapphire glass that is resistant to damage associated withfriction ensures the accuracy of testing results.

[0026] The use of a sapphire glass optical window (11) also reduces theamount of signal loss compared to the prior art. In the prior art, asample is pressed against an electret probe to generate opticalemissions. There is a gap between the surface of the sample and aphotomultiplier tube to accommodate a filter holder (for thephotomultiplier), an electrode, and a shutter. This gap results in asignificant loss in intensity of the signal (optical emission). Togenerate optical emissions, the present invention uses a sapphire windowthat is very thin due to extreme hardness of sapphire material. Thesapphire window is located very close to the entrance slit of thespectrograph, which minimizes signal loss. It also eliminates the needto use lenses, fiber optics, mirrors, etc.

[0027] The membrane (12) serves to ensure that the same amount ofpressure is consistently applied on every point of a sample (13) inpressing it onto an optical window (11). Maintaining constant pressureacross a sample (13) is important to achieving accurate test results byensuring that similar samples provide similar results on a consistentbasis. If a constant, consistent pressure is not applied to the sample,the sample will come into contact with the optical window in a randommanner. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, themembrane (12) is composed of rubber. The present invention is notlimited to a membrane (12) to perform this function. There are severalalternative ways of applying pressure on a sample (13). However, nomatter what means are used to apply pressure, there must be consistentpressure that ensures repeatability in detected characteristics.

[0028] The present invention is also an improvement over the prior artbecause it has a higher limit of adjustable force applied to the sample(13), which allows for greater intensity of the optical emission.Further, in the present invention the speed of rotation of the opticalwindow and force applied may be adjusted and selected, through the useof an external mechanism such as a knob, depending on the goal of theexperiment and sample tested. In the prior art, the speed and the forceapplied to a sample (13) cannot be adjusted through an externalmechanism. The present invention could also be used with a still opticalwindow with a rotating sample instead of a rotating optical window and astill sample.

[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, high purity nitrogenis supplied through a tube to a zone of activation, located between theoptical window (11) and the sample (13), at a constant pressure, whichensures that the environment around the sample is stabilized.

[0030] Devices used for spectrum division of optical emissions (20)include a spectrograph, a monochromator, or filters. These devicescollect, spectrally disperse optical emissions, and reimage the opticalemissions as an output signal. The output signal is a series ofmonochromatic images corresponding to the wavelengths present in thelight imaged at the entrance slit. One preferred embodiment of thepresent invention comprises a spectrograph (20) that presents a range ofwavelengths at the exit focal plane for detection by a multi-channeldetector or photographic film. The present invention is an improvementof the prior art's use of a panel of 26 interference light filters atwavelengths ranging from 252 to 649 nm, with a margin of 9 nm. In orderto receive a fingerprint of any given sample in graph form, the priorart has to make 26 identical samples of the same substance and use 26different filters, each of which recording a certain range of data.Then, the prior art connects these 26 discrete points of data to createa graph. One advantage of the present invention is that a spectrograph(20) and CCD head (30) are able to record all data at once and by usingone sample. Thus, the present invention has the advantage of producing amore accurate result with higher resolution, as well as saving testingtime by eliminating the need for running multiple sample tests. Althoughthe use of filters is not excluded from the present invention,embodiments that do not use filters are an improvement over the priorart because there would be no need for additional parts that hold andchange filters, which decreases the total size and weight of theapparatus.

[0031] Detectors for registration of optical emissions (30) include acharge coupled device (CCD), photodiode (PDA), or a photomultiplier(PMT). Any one of these detectors measures radiant intensity of eachnarrow bandwidth which is selected sequentially by the scanning thedevices used for the spectrum division of optical emissions (20), suchas a spectrograph or a monochromator. The detector (30) converts theradiation of the optical emission into an electric signal. This signalcan be amplified and measured by a detector controller (40). The presentinvention's use of a spectrograph (20) and CCD head (30) combinationmakes it possible to receive a resolution that is up to 1000 timesgreater (depending on technical characteristics) than the resolution ofthe filter panel used by the prior art. There are many advantages ofusing CCD systems, as opposed to filters. CCD systems provide theadvantages of (i) seeing the entire spectrum simultaneously; (ii)registering source fluctuations across the entire spectrum; (iii)allowing “real time” visual monitoring; (iv) allowing multiple sourcesand spatial studies because of a second dimension; (v) allowing foroptimization of signal/noise through the use of binning and grouping ofpixels; (v) limiting dark signals through the use of LN2 cooled CCDs;and (vi) improving quantum efficiency.

[0032] A detector controller (40) is used to control a CCD head, PDA, orPMT based on commands from a computer (50). The detector controller (40)supplies power, clocking signals, synchronization, and biases to adetector (CCD, PDA, or PMT). The detector controller (40) also amplifiesand digitizes the signal as it is collected from the detector.

[0033] A computer (50) is used to store and process data, as well asdisplay information, such as graphs, comparison charts and the like. Thepresent invention's use in conjunction with a computer (50), a CCDController (40) and special software, is an improvement over the priorart because it makes it possible to alter the power, temperature controland timing signals to the detector head (30).

[0034] III. How the Instrument is Operated

[0035] Referring to FIG. 2, the process or flow chart for operating theinstrument is shown. As shown in block 1, the initial step is to place asample (13) between the optical window (11) and the membrane (12). Asshown in block 2, after full pressure is applied on the sample (13) tothe optical window (11), an electric motor rotates the optical window(11) about its z-axis. The friction created between the sample (13) andthe optical window (11) creates triboelectricity, which triggers theactivation process of mechanochemical free-radical reaction of thesample (13). During this process, in addition to temperature increase,there is the emission in the optical and radiowave diapason of theelectromagnetic waves. Optical emissions are then detected as a resultof mechanoemission.

[0036] In the present invention, the optical window (11) is not rotateduntil a sample (13) is fully pressed to the optical window (11). This isan improvement over the prior art where there is a continuous rotationof an electret probe. This difference is very important in achievingaccurate test results. Typically, when samples are prepared, liquidbiosamples (blood, saliva, tears, etc.) in the amount of 0.02-0.05 mlare applied by a pipette on the cellulose or cotton paper. Then, thepaper is dried. In the prior art, the sample is pressed against theelectret probe while the electret probe is rotating. This method ofpressing the sample against the probe results in multiple points ofcontact that are random each time the sample comes in contact with theprobe because a liquid sample somewhat deforms the shape of the paperwhile it dries. Thus, it is not possible to ensure repeatability inresults each time similar samples are examined. In the presentinvention, there is no rotation of the optical window (11) until acompletely dried sample (13) is pressed firmly between the opticalwindow (11) and the membrane (12). The membrane (12) serves to ensurethat each point of the sample (13) comes in contact with the opticalwindow (11) in a uniform way. Only then will the optical window (11)begin to rotate, with the results being recorded. The advantage ofpresent invention is that it ensures the accuracy of the results andrepeatability in testing that was impossible to achieve using the priorart. Depending on the chemical composition of the sample and theobjectives of the experiment, a certain temperature and humidity must beensured when the present invention is in the operation.

[0037] As shown in block 3, optical emissions are directed through adevice to divide the spectrum of optical emissions (20), such as aspectrograph, monochromator, or a filter. The optical emissions are thendirected to a detector (30).

[0038] As shown in block 4, optical emissions are detected by a detector(30) such as a coupled charge device (CCD), a photodiode (PD), or aphotomultiplier tube (PMT).

[0039] As shown in block 5, signals received by the detector (30) areamplified and digitized by a detector controller (40). The detectorcontroller (40) sends the amplified and digitized signals (the“results”) to a computer (50). As shown in block 6, the computer (50)stores the results in memory and analyzes the data. The results may beanalyzed in a variety of ways, including: (i) comparison of peaks on agiven graph; (ii) comparison of a graph with a reference graph; (iii)comparison of parts of a graph; (iv) comparison of detected results withreference results stored on computer memory; and (v) comparison ofdifferent points on a graph.

[0040] To clean the surface of the optical window (11) after its contactwith the sample (13), it is necessary to do the following: (i) wipe thesurface of the optical window (11) with a special wet tissue that isused for optical windows, or (ii) prepare a special tissue by putting adrop of an alcohol substance of 20-30% or lens cleaner on a piece ofpaper or fabric. To neutralize the static charge, it is necessary to dothe following after each test: (i) insert a thin metal grounded sheet inplace of a sample (13); and (ii) press this sheet between the opticalwindow (11) and the rubber membrane (12) without rotating the opticalwindow (11).

EXAMPLE

[0041] The following illustrates one embodiment of the presentinvention. A working prototype of the present invention is currentlyavailable. It comprises: (i) a mechanical activation knot comprising avery thin optical window (0.5 mm) (11) made out of single crystalsapphire; (ii) a Spectrograph CP-140, manufactured and supplied by theISA Company (US); (iii) a Mini Thermoelectrically Cooled CCD Head,manufactured and supplied by the ISA Co.; (iv) a Spectrum OneController, manufactured and supplied by the ISA Co.; and (v) a portablecomputer, manufactured and supplied by Compaq. The prototype has anadjustable speed of activation of up to 5000 RPM. In the prototype, theforce applied to a sample (13) is done with a rubber membrane (12) andthe force can be adjusted from 0.5 to 2000 mm of Mercury (Hg).

[0042] The prototype operates between a range of temperature of 18° to40° Celsius. Depending on the chemical composition of the sample (13)and the objectives of the experiment, certain humidity must be ensuredwhen the instrument is in the operation. The prototype operates betweena range of humidity of 40% to 97% relative humidity (RH).

[0043] The prototype enables detection of optical emissions withintensity for up to 10 to the power of 12 quantums. The duration ofsignal registration is from 1 millisecond to 30 seconds depending on theobject of the experiment and what is used as a sample (13).

[0044]FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate the output of this prototype instrumentwhen inkjet paper and 100% cotton fiber paper are used as samplesrespectively. FIGS. 3 and 4 demonstrate that the present invention isable to recognize the difference in composition of these samples.

[0045] Having now described an embodiment of the invention, it should beapparent to those skilled in the art that the foregoing is illustrativeonly and not limiting, having been presented by way of example only. Allthe features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanyingclaims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative featuresserving the same purpose, and equivalents or similar purpose, unlessexpressly stated otherwise. Therefore, numerous other embodiments of themodifications thereof are contemplated as falling within the scope ofthe present invention as defined by the appended claims and equivalentsthereto.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for analyzing samples usingtriboluminescent technology comprising: a mechanical activation knotthat generates triboluminescence, wherein the mechanical activation knotis further comprised of an optical window, and a membrane; a device fordividing the spectrum of optical emissions; and a detector forregistration of the optical emissions.
 2. The apparatus for analyzingsamples using triboluminescent technology of claim 1, further comprisinga detector controller.
 3. The apparatus for analyzing samples usingtriboluminescent technology of claim 1 or 2, wherein the optical windowis comprised of single crystal sapphire.
 4. The apparatus for analyzingsamples using triboluminescent technology of claim 1 or 2, wherein theoptical window is composed of fused silica.
 5. The apparatus foranalyzing samples using triboluminescent technology of claim 1, 2, 3, or4, wherein the device for dividing the spectrum of optical emissions isa spectrograph.
 6. The apparatus for analyzing samples usingtriboluminescent technology of claim 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein the devicefor dividing the spectrum of optical emissions is a monochromator. 7.The apparatus for analyzing samples using triboluminescent technology ofclaim 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein the device for dividing the spectrum ofoptical emissions is a filter panel.
 8. The apparatus for analyzingsamples using triboluminescent technology of claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or7, wherein the detector is a charged coupling device.
 9. The apparatusfor analyzing samples using triboluminescent technology of claim 1, 2,3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein the detector is a photodiode.
 10. Theapparatus for analyzing samples using triboluminescent technology ofclaim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein the detector is a photomultipliertube.
 11. A method for analyzing samples using triboluminescenttechnology, the method comprising: placing a sample between an opticalwindow and a membrane of a mechanical activation knot, wherein themembrane applies even pressure to the sample; supplying a constantpressure of a gas on a zone located between the membrane and the opticalwindow; rotating the optical window to generate triboluminescence, andresulting optical emissions, from the friction between the sample andthe optical window; directing optical emissions through a device fordividing the spectrum of optical emissions; and detecting the intensityof optical emissions across the spectrum of optical emissions.
 12. Themethod for analyzing samples using triboluminescent technology of claim11, further comprising amplifying and digitizing signals of opticalemissions that have been detected.
 13. The method for analyzing samplesusing triboluminescent technology of claim 12, further comprisingsending digitized signals to a computer.
 14. A system for analyzingsamples using triboluminescent technology comprising: means for creatingtriboluminescence, and resulting optical emissions, by generatingfriction between a sample and an optical window; means for dividing thespectrum of optical emissions; and means for detecting opticalemissions.
 15. The system for analyzing samples using triboluminescenttechnology of claim 14, further comprising means for amplifying anddigitizing detected signals of optical emissions.
 16. The system foranalyzing samples using triboluminescent technology of claim 15, furthercomprising means for storing and analyzing the digitized signals. 17.The system for analyzing samples using triboluminescent technology ofclaim 14, 15, or 16, wherein the means for creating triboluminescence isa mechanical activation knot comprising an optical window composed ofsingle crystal sapphire.
 18. The system for analyzing samples usingtriboluminescent technology of claim 14, 15, or 16, wherein the meansfor creating triboluminescence is a mechanical activation knotcomprising an optical window composed of fused silica.
 19. The systemfor analyzing samples using triboluminescent technology of claim 14, 15,16, 17, or 18, wherein the means for dividing the spectrum of opticalemissions is a spectrograph.
 20. The system for analyzing samples usingtriboluminescent technology of claim 14, 15, 16, 17, or 18, wherein themeans for dividing the spectrum of optical emissions is a monochromator.21. The system for analyzing samples using triboluminescent technologyof claim 14, 15, 16, 17, or 18, wherein the means for dividing thespectrum of optical emissions is a filter panel.
 22. The system foranalyzing samples using triboluminescent technology of claim 14, 15, 16,17, 18, 19, 20, or 21, wherein the means for detecting optical emissionsis a charge coupled device.
 23. The system for analyzing samples usingtriboluminescent technology of claim 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21,wherein the means for detecting optical emissions is a photodiode. 24.The system for analyzing samples using triboluminescent technology ofclaim 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21, wherein the means for detectingoptical emissions is a photomultiplier tube.